Angu Lesley Ngwa Akonwi
Football Writer,kick442.com-Cameroon
It’s official — Anass Salah-Eddine has completed his long-anticipated switch of international allegiance from the Netherlands to Morocco. FIFA’s confirmation this week means the PSV Eindhoven left-back, currently on loan from AS Roma, is now fully eligible to represent the Atlas Lions at senior level.
Born in Amsterdam to Moroccan parents, Salah-Eddine rose through the Dutch football system, donning the orange shirt across every youth category — from U15 to U21. He was once regarded as a long-term prospect for the Netherlands, celebrated for his tactical intelligence, composure on the ball, and modern full-back attributes. But now, at 23, he has chosen to follow his heart and embrace his Moroccan heritage on the international stage.
A Decision Rooted in Identity
For many dual nationals, the choice between two nations is more than football — it’s personal. Salah-Eddine’s decision is a continuation of a growing trend that has seen several Dutch-born players of Moroccan descent — such as Hakim Ziyech, Noussair Mazraoui, and Ibrahim Afellay before them — pledge their allegiance to Morocco.
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), under the leadership of President Fouzi Lekjaa, has been proactive in engaging with diaspora talent. The federation’s extensive scouting network across Europe has strengthened Morocco’s player pool and diversified the team’s tactical options — a key factor behind the country’s recent international success, including their historic 2022 World Cup semi-final run.
Sources close to the FRMF reveal that Salah-Eddine’s integration process has been ongoing for months. Morocco’s coaching staff sees him as a natural successor to established full-backs in the national setup, offering depth and competition ahead of the upcoming World Cup qualifiers and the 2026 tournament.
Dutch Concerns Grow
In the Netherlands, the trend of losing promising players to Morocco has stirred debate within the KNVB (Royal Dutch Football Association). While the Dutch youth system remains one of the most admired globally, questions are being raised about how the national team can retain its multicultural talents amid increasing competition from countries of heritage.
“It’s a reminder that identity and belonging can’t be coached,” one Dutch football commentator noted. “When Morocco celebrates its players like family, it becomes a powerful emotional pull.”
A Fresh Chapter for Morocco
For Morocco, Salah-Eddine’s decision couldn’t come at a better time. With a new generation emerging under coach Walid Regragui, the Atlas Lions are building a squad that blends experience and youthful energy — one that can sustain the country’s impressive momentum on the global stage.
Salah-Eddine, whose technical skill and versatility allow him to operate both as a left-back and in midfield, fits perfectly into Regragui’s dynamic, possession-oriented system. His experience in European competitions with PSV and his development at AS Roma add valuable pedigree to the Moroccan setup.
The Bigger Picture
Beyond the sporting implications, Salah-Eddine’s story represents the larger narrative of identity, belonging, and pride that continues to define Moroccan football’s global reach. Each player’s decision to wear the Atlas Lions’ jersey is both a personal journey and a reflection of Morocco’s growing footballing influence.
As the young defender prepares for his first call-up, one thing is certain — his switch marks not just a new chapter in his career, but another proud moment for Moroccan football.
From Amsterdam to Rabat, the Atlas Lions’ roar keeps getting louder — and Anass Salah-Eddine is now part of the pride.
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